- SALSA On MANZANA RECORDS
In 1977, salsa luminaries Celia Cruz and Willie Colón orchestrated a musical marvel on Manzana Records. Co-produced by Colón and Jerry Masucci, the 12" vinyl LP, captured by photographer Lee Marshall, featured a stellar ensemble, showcasing Cruz's commanding vocals and Colón's versatile instrumentation. Released in Spain, this album transcends time, embodying the pinnacle of salsa's golden era and leaving an indelible mark on global music history.
Willie Colón and Jerry Masucci, who co-produced the album. Their combined expertise in the salsa genre contributed to the seamless fusion of Cruz's vocals and Colón's bass and trumpet skills. The production team, including the talented photographer Lee Marshall, played a crucial role in visually capturing the essence of the music.
Musical Ensemble:
The ensemble of musicians assembled for this project reads like a who's who of salsa legends. Celia Cruz, renowned as the "Queen of Salsa," lent her powerful vocals that could evoke a myriad of emotions. Willie Colón, not only a bassist but also a trumpeter, showcased his musical versatility. The trombone section, featuring Leopoldo Pineda, Papo Vasquez, and Lewis Kahn, added depth and richness to the arrangements.
The rhythmic heartbeat of the album was provided by Luis Romero on timbales, Jose Mangual on bongo, and Milton Cardona on conga. Pablo Rosario's percussion, Prof Joe Torres on piano, Yomo Toro on guitar, and the delightful trio consisting of Dalia and Ruben Figueroa added layers of musical complexity, creating an immersive listening experience.
Release in Spain:
This salsa extravaganza was not only a sensation in its native roots but also made its mark internationally. The album's release in Spain further solidified its global impact, introducing the Iberian audience to the infectious rhythms and soul-stirring melodies of Celia Cruz and Willie Colón.
Album Summary: The Queen (Celia Cruz) and the King (Willie Colon) united to records this fantastic Salsa album |
Music Genre: Salsa |
Album Production: Produced by WIllie Colon & Jerry Masucci , Photography: Lee Marshall |
Record Label & Catalognr: Manzana FML-12 |
Vinyl Record Format: 12" Vinyl LP Gramophone Record |
Year and Country: 1977, Made in the Spain |
Band Members and Musicians on: CELIA CRUZ & WILLIE COLON ONLY THEY COULD HAVE MADE THIS ALBUM |
Complete Track Listing of: CELIA CRUZ & WILLIE COLON ONLY THEY COULD HAVE MADE THIS ALBUM |
Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).
Description
"Only They Could Have Made This Album" Record Label Details: MANZANA Records FML-12, SGAE , Made in Spain
The 1980s marked a significant period of evolution and experimentation. Among the numerous artists who contributed to this era's musical tapestry, the legendary Celia Cruz and Johnny Pacheco stand out prominently. Their collaborative effort, the 12" Vinyl LP album "De Nuevo," recorded in 1985
Learn moreThe ensemble of musicians assembled for this project reads like a who's who of salsa legends. Celia Cruz, renowned as the "Queen of Salsa," lent her powerful vocals that could evoke a myriad of emotions. Willie Colón, not only a bassist but also a trumpeter, showcased his musical versatility.
- Only They Could Have Made This Album (1977, Spain) - Only They Could Have Made This Album (1977, USA)